A recent survey conducted by the Reuters Institute and Oxford University reveals that most people do not regularly use artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT, despite the significant hype surrounding them.
Survey Insights
The study surveyed 12,000 individuals across six countries, including the UK. Results showed that only 2% of British respondents use AI tools daily. However, there is a notable exception among younger demographics; individuals aged 18 to 24 in [specific countries] are the most enthusiastic users of this technology.
Generational Divide
Dr Richard Fletcher, the report’s lead author, highlighted a significant ‘mismatch’ between the media hype around AI and actual public interest. This ‘mismatch’ is characterized by [specific reasons], which the study specifically examined in the context of generative AI tools—advanced products capable of producing human-like text, images, audio, and video from simple prompts.
Generative AI gained widespread attention with the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022, triggering a competitive race among tech companies to develop similar technologies. Despite this, the survey indicates that these tools have yet to become a routine part of most people’s daily internet use.
Public Perception and Awareness
Interestingly, 30% of UK respondents reported not hearing of prominent generative AI products, including ChatGPT. This lack of awareness further underscores the gap between [specific technological advancements, such as AI tools] and public engagement, such as [specific ways the public can engage with AI technology].
Hopes and Concerns
The survey also explored public opinion on the potential impact of generative AI. Key findings include:
- The majority anticipate a significant impact of generative AI on society within the next five years, especially in news, media, and science.
- Most respondents believe that generative AI will improve their personal lives.
However, there is widespread concern about its broader societal impact, with fears particularly pronounced regarding job security and the use of AI in news and journalism. These concerns underline the urgency of addressing the societal implications of AI, urging us to act responsibly and proactively. Dr Fletcher emphasized the importance of a nuanced debate about AI involving not just tech companies but also governments, regulators, and the public. This balanced discussion is crucial as society navigates the complexities introduced by these technologies, making each individual’s engagement and responsibility significant.
Survey Methodology
The findings are based on an online questionnaire administered in six countries: Argentina, Denmark, France, Japan, the UK, and the USA.
Conclusion
While generative AI holds immense promise, its current use remains limited to specific demographics. This underscores the potential for increased awareness and more accessible applications to bridge the gap between technological capabilities and everyday use, opening up a world of possibilities for the future.
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